Local residents joined railway staff and council representatives at Wilmslow Station on Tuesday, 2nd November, for an event aimed at improving the gateway to the town.
Wilmslow Local Area Partnership (LAP) have been looking at ways to improve the railway station and invited passengers to share their experiences of Wilmslow Railway Station.
The event included a demonstration from Beech Restoration who cleaned up a section of the bridge outside the station. LAP Manager Richard Christopherson said "We have received a quote for these structures to be brought back to their original condition and now plan to approach Network Rail to provide funding to get this work done - which will transform the outlook of this area of the station."
Incredible Edible joined the event to provide information about the work they have done around the station, which includes removing the dead stumps from the station planters. Helen Yates, who launched Incredible Edible Wilmslow a year ago, explained "The planters now host lovely herbs and we'll be repainting them this Sunday at the monthly plant up."
Representatives from the Unpaid Work Scheme also attended to demonstrate the work they provide in local communities and Network Rail held a 'Meet The Manager' session to provide rail passengers with the opportunity to comment on the facilities and services provided at the station.
Richard Christopherson added "The event was well received and the passengers were grateful to receive information on the progress being made at the station, particularly in respect of the new cycle parking and changes to the parking tariffs to allow long stay facilities at the Broadway Meadow car park."
The newly formed Friends of the Railway Station were available to talk to passengers and recruit new members to get involved in ways to improve the railway station.
Inspired by successful friends groups at Handforth and Styal stations, Northern Rail and Cheshire East Council's Local Area Parternship (LAP) were keen to get a group formed for Wilmslow station.
Rob Sawyer, from Friends of Styal Station, said "Friends groups can make a real difference in improving the ambiance and appearance of stations whilst forging closer links with the local community."
If you are interested in joining a Friends Group for Wilmslow Station email David Waite, Line Manager for Northern Rail.
